It is almost obvious that the quota referendum is a fake, manipulative tool, a tool to divert attention from real problems in Hungarian society, a tool to keep the xenophobic propaganda working - very much like the national consultation last year. In this article first, we review how the referendum came about and put in into the context of the strategies of the government to show its force. Second, we outline the positions of the different political parties. This shows not only how much the government has succeeded in "colonizing" the current discourse, but also why it is so important to push for an alternative because of this.

Considering how the whole idea and then the proposal to hold a referendum unfolded, it is clear from the start that this whole matter is a well prepared tactic of Fidesz which the party may use to hide other problems such as crises in health-care, housing and education. It is also worth noting that it is a message, a show of power making it clear who may successfully propose a referendum, while everyone else will face insurmountable obstacles.